What to Pack for Your Trip to the Oregon Coast

There is so much to love about the Oregon Coast. The sandy beaches, the craggy cliffs on the seaside, the flourishing flora and fauna, and the fact that so many film classics like “Goonies”, “Free Willy” “The Ring”, and “Twilight” were filmed there, are just the tip of the iceberg of reasons to love this place. 

So you’ve booked your flight and your neighbor has agreed to plant-sit while you’re away and yet, you have no idea what to even pack for an Oregon Coast trip. Don’t sweat it! We’ve compiled a list of items that you’ll need while exploring the Oregon coastline during each season.

Spring

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During the spring, it can be quite humid but it remains fairly cold with temperatures in the 50s and 60s. It also rains up to 18 days out of each springtime month which makes perfect sense considering that there is so much lush topography to enjoy.

So, if you’re a lover of pluvial days, this is the best time for you to visit Oregon! Time to pack our bags:

Rain Gear

You’ll be greeted with rainfall for at least half the time you’re up on the Oregon coastline in the spring. So, taking a waterproof jacket, pants and shoe combo is necessary for any outdoor exploring. An umbrella will come in pretty handy as well.

Warm Clothing

It’s still chilly in the springtime so layering is still your best friend. Warm shirts, sweaters and jackets cannot be forgotten from your packing checklist. Swap out shorts for long pants and throw a few pairs of socks and gloves in the mix for extra warmth!

Summer and Fall

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Summertime at Oregon Coast- especially in the month of July - is the best time to enjoy water activities and to follow a trail into the forest. The air is usually dry, and as opposed to the springtime, you’ll experience little to no rain and temperatures usually average between the mid-60s and the low 80s.

Fall weather is not too far off from summer as the temperatures average the mid-40s to high 60s, but you can definitely expect more wind. Your checklist for both seasons will look similar so here’s what you’ll need to pack:

T-Shirts

The weather is less humid and cold in the summer. This makes it the perfect time to wear a few t-shirts during the hiking, site seeing, and all your other coastline voyages.

Sturdy Shoes

Hiking and Oregon Coast go together like peanut butter and jelly. You’ll want to take advantage of the dry July air, so pack heavy-duty shoes for trekking the forested trails and the rocky paths that await.

Wetsuit

If you’re a total thalassophile and just can’t stay away from the ocean, we suggest popping a wetsuit in your suitcase.

Although summer days are warmer, the ocean remains very cold and may prove difficult to stay in for extended periods of time in regular swimsuits. However, the wetsuit should be a quick fix so that you can enjoy all your aquatic activities including kayaking and even a little surfing. 

You have 363 miles worth of free, public beaches to enjoy, so swimwear is a definite yes for your coastline vacation during the summertime.

Warm Clothing

Don’t let the word ‘summer’ fool you—temperatures drop as low as the 30s at night-time and during the fall it gets even lower.

So, right after you pack that wetsuit, pack a couple pieces of warm shirts, jackets, and sweaters, to layer on, as well as gloves, rain boots and warm socks. In addition, a warm, cozy blanket for those chilly, hot cocoa drinking evenings just has to make the cut.

Wind Protection Gear

You should always anticipate windy days on the Oregon coast. Pack a windbreaker, a beanie, and a few hair ties to keep your hair from dancing in the wind like a tube man at the car dealership.

Sun Protection Gear

Temperatures may drop on this coastal community, but the UV rays of the sun won’t, so it’s imperative that you protect yourself from overexposure. Pack a few hats and caps, some sunglasses, an umbrella or two, and most importantly, sunblock with at least SPF 30.

Bug Spray

When hiking or doing any other outdoorsy activity, bug spray will always come in handy.

Winter

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This is the rainy season on the Oregon Coast and temperatures are usually in the 30s. Layering is your main goal to protect yourself from the cold winter days. Here’s what you need:

Rain Gear

In addition to bringing wind resistant clothing, you’ll need a set of rain gear to survive winter on the coast. You’ll need your raincoat, umbrella, and rain boots. 

Pro tip: Under your raincoat it’s best to have on cotton clothing since it’s less absorbent and will dry quickly.

Warm Layers

We don’t know if you noticed, but the common theme this whole time is to keep warm. So just as in the spring, summer, and fall, you’ll need to bundle up with layers of warm clothing. 

You know that cozy sweater that you love so much? Pack it. How about your cute fuzzy socks? Drop a few pairs in your bags. Also, don’t forget your long-sleeved shirts and sweaters, winter boots and coats, as well as a few pairs of long pants.

Lip Balm

Chapped lips are no fun and the weather at Oregon Coast can cause them to get really dry. To prevent that from happening, pack some lip balm to keep your lips moisturized for the whole trip.  For extra lip protection, reach for a lip balm with SPF in it.

Additional Necessities 

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We covered seasonal clothing, now it’s time to check a few other important things to pack. You’ll need these no matter the season!

• Driver’s License/Passport

• Wallet

• Phone+Charger

• Portable Power Bank

• Laptop+Charger

• Toothbrush+Toothpaste+Floss

• Lotion 

• Deodorant

• Perfume/Cologne

• Feminine Hygiene Products

• Underwear

• Hair brush/comb + other styling tools

• Glasses/Contacts

• Skincare Products

• Makeup

• Vitamins/Medicine

• Ointment

• Jewelry

• Earphones/Headphones

• Hand Sanitizer/Alcohol+Wipes

Miscellaneous Items

Stone Collecting Baggie

The coast of Oregon is famous for its agate and other minerals. If you’re a collector at heart, a stone collecting bag should be on your packing checklist.

Ball/Games

If you’re traveling with kids or just a group of friends, a game of beach volleyball or an evening of Monopoly by the fireplace can be a fun group activity. So, bring a few balls, beach toys, board games and a deck of cards to expand your list of activities to do.

Trail Mix

A few bags of trail mix aren’t needed, but they sure are a great addition to your hiking adventures.

Binoculars

We can’t mention this enough, but Oregon Coast is one of Mother Nature’s favorite creations because it’s an absolute beauty to behold!

You’ll want to have a pair of binoculars to get a closer look at the birds on the coast. The best time for birding is during the spring and fall when the majestic creatures are migrating.

One of the most scenic and mystifying spots that nature offers is definitely along the Oregon Coast. The weather makes for the coziest days and creates the perfect backdrop for fully immersing yourself in nature or even a romantic evening with the one you love. 

We can’t wait for you to experience this wonder while staying with Wander!